Sam Profit and her husband Graham have experienced many changes and new opportunities in recent months. The young couple moved to Canora in September, welcomed the birth of their first child, daughter Terra, on October 7 and have taken over as owners of the Home Hardware store in Canora from Graham’s father Kris. The store has been in the Profit family since 1994.
The plan, initially at least, is for Sam to manage the store on a day-to-day basis while Graham stays home with Terra. But Graham said he’ll definitely be available to help out at the store when needed.
“I’m a journeyman licensed electrician, and I also have plumbing experience,” he said. “I’m expecting this will help out with running our store.”
Sam has previous experience in retail management, and is looking forward to putting that experience to good use in Canora, serving customers with hardware supplies, home goods and knowledgeable employees.”
“I grew up in Illinois and attended university in B.C.,” said Sam. “My retail experience includes working at Fabric and Craft stores in the U.S.”
Prior to moving to Canora, the young couple lived in Eastend, southwest of Swift Current, where Graham worked as an electrician in the oil field.
He grew up in Canora and developed an interest in music as a youngster. He recalls working at the Co-op service station while attending high school.
“Canora is much the same as I remember it,” Graham said. “The people are great, everyone has been really nice and supportive since we’ve taken over the store.”
His father is gradually stepping back from day-to-day operations at Home Hardware, but is still available when they need extra help or the benefit of his years of experience.
The new owners are not making any staffing changes, which should help with continuity. Barb High has been with Home Hardware in Canora for six years, while Dan Daoust has worked there for seven months.
“Kris trusted them,” said Sam. “They’re good people who know what they’re doing.”
The young couple said they are excited to be starting a family and as the new owners of home hardware.
“We look forward to breathing more life into the store and bringing a fresh perspective,” said Sam. “We’re slowly moving out some old inventory and bringing in new items. Customers can also expect to see changes in the appearance of the store, as Home Hardware is bringing in new fixtures and signage.”
The young couple has enjoyed their short time in Canora, and look forward to getting to know more people as they continue to get involved in the community and build the business. Sam said they’re always open to customer input and are interested in hearing ideas regarding what items they would like to see available on the shelves at Home Hardware in Canora.
